Health
Benefits of Fish
Healthy Diet
Fish
is a low-fat high quality protein. Fish is filled with omega-3 fatty
acids and vitamins such as D and B2 (riboflavin). Fish is rich in
calcium and phosphorus and a great source of minerals, such as iron,
zinc, iodine, magnesium, and potassium.
See how to properly cook fish and try our healthy
fish recipes.
Healthy Heart and Brain
Eating fish is an important source of omega-3 fatty acids. These
essential nutrients keep our heart and brain healthy. Two omega-3
fatty acids found in fish are EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic
acid). Our bodies don't produce omega-3 fatty acids so we
must get them through the food we eat. Omega-3
fatty acids are found in every kind of fish, but are especially high
in fatty fish. Some good choices are salmon, trout, sardines, herring, canned
mackerel, canned light tuna, and oysters.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids:
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Help maintain a healthy heart by lowering blood pressure and reducing
the risk of sudden death, heart attack, abnormal heart rhythms, and
strokes.
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Aid healthy brain function and infant development of vision and
nerves during pregnancy.
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May decrease the risk of depression, ADHD, Alzheimer’s disease,
dementia, and diabetes.
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May prevent inflammation
and reduce
the risk of arthritis.
Cultural Importance
Fish
is an important cultural icon in Washington State that defines a
recreational as well as a spiritual way of life in the Pacific
Northwest. Fish is not only an important source of nutrition, the
act of catching, preparing, and eating fish are important cultural
and family practices as well. To Native American Indian Tribes of
Washington, fish, especially salmon, are an integral part of their
lives, and serve as a symbol of their prosperity, culture, and
heritage.
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The
American Heart Association recommends eating fish at least two times per
week as part of a healthy diet. Fish is packed with protein, vitamins, and
nutrients that can lower blood pressure and help reduce the risk of a heart
attack or stroke.
To help you make seafood choices that are low in
contaminants and high in health benefits, see our
healthy fish guide.
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